Attorney General Van Hollen endorses Brad Schimel as his successor

Attorney General J.B. Van Hollen Wednesday endorsed Waukesha County District Attorney Brad Schimel as his successor, signalling that Van Hollen doesn't expect a competitive GOP primary for the office.

In a statement, Van Hollen praised Schimel’s two decades of experience as a prosecutor. Van Hollen, a Republican like Schimel, created an open race for attorney general in October by announcing he would not seek a third term.

“Brad Schimel embodies what it means to be Wisconsin’s ‘Top Cop,’” Van Hollen said in the statement. “Brad’s a law enforcement professional who will reject the partisan wrangling of Madison to do what’s in the best interest of public safety and protecting Wisconsin families.”

Democrats have a three-way primary for the office, with Jefferson County District Attorney Susan Happ, Dane County District Attorney Ismael Ozanne and state Rep. Jon Richards of Milwaukee all committed to a run so far.

About Jason Stein

Jason Stein covers the state Capitol and is the author with his colleague Patrick Marley of "More than They Bargained For: Scott Walker, Unions and the Fight for Wisconsin." His work has been recognized by journalism groups such as the American Society of News Editors, the Society of American Business Editors and Writers, and the Association of Capitol Reporters and Editors.